From the Bench: Judge Chapman’s appointment leaves big shoes to fill in 43rd

Since the appointment of Judge Chapman to the Western District Court of Appeals, the 43^rd Judicial Circuit has been operating with one less judge than required.

The 43^rd Circuit consists of Caldwell, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, and Livingston counties. Each county has one Associate Circuit Judge and, since 1981, has been authorized to have two Circuit Judges.

Needless to say, Judge Chapman’s elevation left us with big shoes to fill. He was an extremely active judge, handling a substantial caseload in addition to his presiding judge duties. Also, during the month of October, all judges throughout the state were required to participate in what the Supreme Court referenced as the “Circuit Realignment Project-Weighted Workload Study.” In addition to their normal duties, each judge was required to submit the nature and duration of each task performed for statistical analysis. Also, all of Missouri’s rural judges are facing re-election this year and, as mentioned in last month’s article, two judges were opposed in the November election. As you can imagine, these issues contributed significantly to our already stressed judicial workload.

It was particularly important our courts meet their obligations at this point in history. Missouri’s Judicial Circuits are scheduled for realignment consideration in 2020. Many factors may be considered in determining the boundaries of judicial circuits.

Population, caseload, and need are significant. The 43^rd Circuit’s population is increasing, but still less than some other circuits with two circuit judges. However, the caseload is significant. This circuit is the only one in Missouri with three penitentiaries, a regional jail, and a federal detention center.

As presiding judge, I wish to express the gratitude of the 43^rd Circuit to our Associate Circuit Judges for their extra effort in our hour of need. Also, a special thanks to Senior Judge Brad Funk of Mercer for his assistance in keeping up with our caseload. Their contributions may prove significant when circuit realignment is considered.

I am about to embark on my final term as a judge. Circuit changes that will not take effect until the end of my tenure will have no impact on me professionally. However, as it should be to any citizen, judicial efficiency is a significant concern.

As this article goes to print I will travel to Kansas City to witness an historic event. Judge Thomas Nichols Chapman will be sworn as Judge for the Western District Court of Appeals. It is a great honor for him and the citizens of our circuit. I too am honored to have served with him.

Editor’s note: Circuit Judge R. Brent Elliott presents this series of articles to provide citizens with a better understanding of the judicial system.